The capability to operate on E85 enables modern vehicles to be more flexible today. Good Deal or Nothing Saab offers a flex-fuel vehicle. Let’s find out if this high-mileage ethanol drinker comes at a price that isn’t too maize-heavy.
In journalist-business interactions, placing information under embargo serves as a mutually agreeable method for reporters to adhere to their publishing timelines while enabling companies to maintain an element of surprise and excitement for their clientele. 1987 Toyota Supra When we recall last Friday, it evokes a moment when that unwritten understanding was violated. This occurred roughly two years prior to our vehicle hitting the market, well before Toyota had revealed anything official about the upcoming model. At that time, a set of photos showcasing an uncovered prototype of the unreleased car landed on the desk of an editor at AutoWeek (which was then still a printed journal). The magazine opted to publish these photographs, thereby breaching the non-disclosure terms and drawing severe criticism from Toyota’s advertising department.
There was backlash from AutoWeek missing out on some initial insider details temporarily; however, securing this exclusive likely boosted their reputation as a reputable source in journalism. Our renowned Supra didn’t cause similar issues. It boasted a recent repaint and a T-top roof, looking stunning in the advertisement. This appealing look, coupled with its $9,000 listing price, resulted in a convincing 59% Nice Price victory during our poll.
Read more: These Are All the Auto Brands That GM Eliminated
Saab Story
When it comes to vehicle manufacturing, Toyota reigns supreme. Currently, this Japanese powerhouse leads as the global leader in automobile production, with annual output surpassing ten million cars and trucks. In stark contrast, Saab has ceased operations; the once-small Swedish company closed down in 2011. However, prior to its closure, Saab had garnered a dedicated following thanks to its enjoyable, secure, and perhaps eccentric lineup of vehicles.
Acquired by General Motors in 2000 (with the corporation holding a 50% share since 1989), the brand began to shed much of its distinctive character when forced to develop vehicles using pre-existing platforms sourced from GM’s German arm, Opel, along with globally used designs that often adopted a generic, universal style.
The 2010 Saab 9-5 What we’re examining today is a vehicle from the GM era. This particular model incorporates elements reminiscent of Saab design—such as having a start button instead of a key located between the seats—and possesses distinctive styling that gives off a sense of relatedness. Apart from these features and some adjusted suspension settings, the car shares the same platform as both the Opel Insignia and the Buick Regal.
How Swede It Is
The final 9-to-5 was also The final Saab to be manufactured That operation barely made it through a year before General Motors, having gone bust, phased out both the company and the vehicle. Altogether, fewer than 12,000 9-5 models were produced before production ceased permanently.
This makes the vehicle quite uncommon, with the addition of the BioPower E85 engine making it exceptionally scarce. Despite having clocked an impressive 220,000 miles, the transition under new ownership hasn’t diminished its quality. The car boasts several notable features: Its flexible fuel engine delivers a respectable output of 220 horsepower along with 235 lb-ft of torque. This power gets smoothly distributed to all four wheels thanks to an always-on AWD system paired with an Aisin six-speed automatic gearbox. As stated in the advertisement, the car comes fully equipped; however, the lack of a central touchscreen somewhat reflects its age. Additionally, the seller emphasizes that it “looks fantastic!”
From the outside, the dark blue finish looks great, masking the vehicle’s years and mileage. However, these signs become apparent when examining the original rims, which show some wear and tear. Inside, the interior reflects a comparable condition; the leather on the driver's seat along with the floor mat beneath exhibit considerable use. Nonetheless, only the floor mat shows signs of being worn through. All other elements seem to be in good condition, and the design has aged gracefully.
Corn-pone?
The Saab features a panoramic sunroof, a clear title history, but unfortunately has an excessive amount of decals on both the hatchback door and back bumper. These stickers indicate a fondness for wire-haired terriers as well as various other interests, which might require removal so potential buyers aren’t deterred by what could seem like cluttered personal expression. After all, nobody desires such adornments.
Certainly, we should take into account the car’s $2,950 asking price before diving headfirst into removing the stickers. It’s quite a rare chance, and the vehicle appears to be in reasonable condition. Additionally, although the listing provides minimal details, it doesn’t mention any questionable mechanics that might cast doubt on buying it.
What’s your take on this flexible fuel Saab along with its listed price? Does it seem like an incredible deal considering the high mileage, struggling brand, and unappealing decals? Or does it appear that this model may have run its course?
You decide!
New York, New York, Craigslist , or go here if the ad disappears.
Reach out to me regarding NPOND. Contact robemslie@gmail.com for a fixed-priced contribution. Don’t forget to add your commentator username.
Want more like this? Join the Jalopnik newsletter To receive the most recent automobile updates directly in your mailbox...
Read the original article on Jalopnik .